In case you haven't heard, the next big news for Toyota is here. Last month, the 2012 North American International Auto Show took place in Detroit, and Toyota showed off two exciting new vehicles. The Prius c and NS4 plug-in hybrid concept highlight the company's basic tenets while embracing the latest technology. Courtesy Toyota of Brandon has the details to keep you informed.
The Prius c debuted at the show and will be available for sale this March. The "c" stands for "city," pointing to this vehicle's unique design that makes it at home on bustling city streets. Toyota says that the Prius c has a city fuel economy rating of 53 mpg, making it the most fuel-efficient city vehicle without a plug. The Prius c is designed to complete the Prius line, which will also include the Prius LIftback, Prius v, and all-new Prius Plug-In Hybrid for 2012.
Don't worry about the Prius c putting a heavy load on your checkbook. The starting MSRP for this vehicle is below $19,000, and will be available in four trim levels so that you can tailor your level of luxury. Standard features like automatic climate control, a Multi-Information Display, and Bluetooth® hands-free controls ensure that you'll be well-equipped no matter which trim you choose.
An official release date for the NS4 advanced plug-in hybrid concept is still unknown, but the details shown for this exciting new concept car guarantee that it would make a big impression if released. The NS4 concept is the result of a challenge by Toyota engineers to design a mid-sized concept for potential introduction by 2015. The NS4 certainly looks like something from the future, with "wing" daytime running lights, ultra-thin A-pillars, and a low overall height.
Inside, the NS4 concept features a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) that operates off of a touchscreen with smartphone design features. This system can learn driver preferences and anticipate responses in specific situations. Meanwhile, the advanced plug-in Hybrid Synergy Drive is stripped down to the core, reducing overall weight and size for impressive upgrades in fuel economy and range.
At Courtesy Toyota of Brandon, we can't wait to see the Prius c on our lot, and we hope that the NS4—or something like it—follows soon.